The change of command ceremony marks a transfer of total responsibility and authority from one individual to another. The ceremony is a time honored tradition, conducted before the assembled crew, as well as honored guests and dignitaries in order to formally demonstrate the continuity of the authority within a command.

Allen has served the Jacksonville area since June 2012 and has overseen numerous Coast Guard activities throughout the northeastern Florida region. Following the ceremony, Allan will assume the role as the chief of congressional affairs in Washington, D.C.

Dixon comes to Jacksonville from Coast Guard Sector New York, where he held the position of deputy sector commander.